Dear Marc:
Our windows are in sad need of attention. We live in an older bungalow and the windows have never been replaced. The house is cold in winter and hot in summer. We have two windows in the living room, one in the kitchen, one in the dining room, and several spread across our three bedrooms. I want to replace all of these windows but I have never shopped for windows before. Any suggestions?
Kelsey
Dear Kelsey:
Windows are our connection to the outside world. They give us the opportunity to admire the many wonders of the world while seated comfortably in our homes.
A window can be an accessory in a room and even act as a focal point.
According to Tracy Nadiger, director of marketing of All Weather Windows, there is a wealth of options in windows today. They come in every shape and size, are fully customizable, and the best part is that they are energy-efficient. I think triple-pane windows are gaining in popularity not only because of energy efficiency but also because they block out a lot of noise.
With the rising cost of energy, it makes perfect sense to consider energy-efficient windows when renovating. As well, upgrading your old windows with newer models will likely increase the value of your home and its curb appeal.
One thing that homeowners look for when buying a home is leaky windows, so I suggest considering the Apex Alloy line of windows from All Weather Windows that are built with a V-weld technology—a European technology that has been adopted by All Weather Windows. The process involves one single frame instead of a box-to-box construction. The single frame virtually eliminates water and air leaks, made possible because of V-weld technology.
The most intimidating part of window shopping is the overwhelming amount of options. In light of that, I’ve asked Tracy to share some guidelines in an easy step-by-step process.
Step 1: Choose Your Texture
Do you want wood or PVC? There are advantages to both options depending on your preference. If you are looking for a product that you can customize and stain to match your overall décor, then wood is your best option. If you are looking a maintenance free product that won’t require repainting or staining after a certain amount of years, then opt for PVC. Both materials offer esthetic appeal therefore your choice is a matter of personal preference.
Step 2: Choose an Operating Style
Windows today come with a variety of operating styles. Some of the most popular styles include casement and glider systems. Again, each one has its use depending on the function of the space. If you are concerned about energy efficiency, browse casement-style windows. Its locking mechanism ensures that the window has a tight seal to offer utmost energy efficiency.
Step 3: The Glass
Did you know that you can get glass that will help keep heat out of your home during the hot summer months? All Weather Windows offers a glass coating that helps lower the passive solar heat gain. Therefore, if you have large windows on the south or west side of your home, this is a crucial option. Some homeowners when designing their homes will actually place trees on the south and west side of the property to offer shade to those windows to help eliminate heat coming into the home. If you are doing a renovation project and your external landscape elements do not offer shade on that side of your home, look at the glass coating option. It will help alleviate heat in your home during those hot summer days.
Step 4: Grilles and SDLs (Simulated Divided Lights)
SDLs are mounted on the glass and replicate old style windows with today’s efficiency. Grilles give the look of the SDL but are smaller in scale and are placed in between the panes of glass. You can choose from a variety of grille or SDL options that complement your home’s outside and inside design. For a more traditional look, browse windows with a detailed grille.
Step 5: Exterior colour option
Depending on the type of window chosen, you might be given outdoor colour choices. This is a great way to add a splash of colour to your home. When building an overall exterior colour scheme, consider using a colour palette utilizing three colours (one main colour and two accents) as opposed to two. These colours can be applied to the exterior finish of your home (main colour), window trim (first accent colour), and exterior accessories (second accent colour). This will give your home a more dynamic look.
Remember, when measuring your windows to replace them with new ones, be sure to consult with a window dealer or contractor who will be able to advise you on the best size and style of window.
Enjoy your renovation project!
Marc Atiyolil is a celebrity designer, the Editor-in-Chief of Canadian Home Trends Magazine, a design expert on CTV, host of the TV series DIY Hotline and the host of the Marc Atiyolil Show on www.MarcAtiyolil.com. To subscribe to Home Trends Magazine visit www.CanadianHomeTrends.com.
COPYRIGHT 2013 - Marc Atiyolil Media Inc.
